Old Testament

Midrash, or the rabbinical interpretation of Old Testament writings, repeats certain phrases and scenes as a way to help the devout learn sacred texts. The technique may help explain why Maya Angelou seems to be repeating herself throughout her new memoir, Mom & Me & Mom. Before you unleash your outraged cries, I mean to say only that we’ve met these Moms before: One is Angelou’sÂ fascinating and complicated mother, Vivian “Lady” Baxter, a figure well known to readers ofÂ her searing …